Preparing Technicians for the Future of Work

In this podcast episode, Mike Lesiecki hosts Alexandra Gorgevska, Department Chair for the Biotechnology Program at Palm Beach State College, as they discuss integrating emerging technologies into educational programs. Alexandra shares insights into the modifications made to the biotechnology program, highlighting partnerships with industry and the importance of adapting curriculum to meet industry demands. They focus on the introduction of spreadsheet skills in the curriculum, addressing challenges and strategies for implementation. Their discussion underscores the need for relevant skills in the workforce and the role of educational institutions in bridging skill gaps.

This episode provides a better understanding of why everyone needs basic cybersecurity awareness as Mike and guest John Sands explore the booming demand for cybersecurity professionals across industries, emerging threats, and the critical skills needed to combat them. They also discuss how community colleges are equipping the next generation with the knowledge and tools to succeed by integrating cybersecurity modules into existing training programs to create a cybersecurity-savvy workforce.

This episode delves into the pivotal role of data analytics in modern technical fields, particularly in Northern Utah's manufacturing sector. Mike and guests Mason Lefler and Scott Danielson explore the evolving landscape of technician education, emphasizing the importance of cross-disciplinary STEM skills and the need for educational institutions to adapt to industry demands. They discuss the integration of data analytics into technician training programs, highlighting initiatives such as grants for developing data analytics courses and automated manufacturing trainers. They also touch on challenges in curriculum refinement and student skill retention.

In this episode, Mike and Kevin delve into the burgeoning realms of renewable energy and electric vehicles (EVs). They explore the need for collaboration with educational institutions to train future professionals and identify job opportunities in the EV sector. Drawing from his visit to Tesla's Gigafactory, Kevin discusses manufacturing processes and emphasize the importance of safety certifications and coupling EVs with renewable energy sources. Additionally, he sheds light on the development of EV programs in Southeastern states and initiatives to address gender disparities in the automotive industry. From emerging battery technologies to cybersecurity considerations, Kevin offers insights into the dynamic landscape of renewable energy and EVs, leaving listeners with valuable resources for further exploration and professional growth.

In this debut episode of our extended podcast/webinar series, we take off on an enlightening journey as we navigate autonomous technologies with special guest Zackary Nicklin of the National Center for Autonomous Technologies.

Episode Highlights: Exploring Autonomous Technologies: Join us as we delve into the transformative concept of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). Zackary shares his expertise on the implementation of autonomous systems across industries with valuable commentary about it as it relates to the ever-evolving technological landscape.

Advanced Air Mobility (AAM): Discover the future of transportation with Zackary's AAM. From programmable routes to sensors and driverless vehicles, we explore the potential impact on last-mile delivery, personal mobility, and beyond.

Core Electronics Class Proposal: Learn about Northland College's proposal for a core electronics class, aiming to streamline coursework and expose students to diverse career pathways. Zackary discusses the challenges and opportunities of implementing this innovative educational approach.

Industry Applicability and Data Analytics: Explore the broad applicability of autonomous technologies across marine, agriculture, and space sectors. Dive into the importance of standardization, data analytics, and the role of these technologies in shaping various industries.

Imagine being part of a team working for global manufacturing, supply and distribution of groundbreaking vaccines and life-saving treatments. Imagine as a technician the different roles you might have. What are your job responsibilities? What are the fundamentals and what are the more advance skills that will set you on a career path of success? Find out in this episode when Mike explores these questions and more with guest Jon Tucker.As an industry leader with a wealth of experience, Jon shares his insight and discusses how education and industry are innovating and collaborating so that technicians are equipped with the skills they’ll need today and in the future of work.

As an IT professional with an entrepreneurial spirit, Amy brings her vast international experience in both large and small tech companies as she shares her insight into the Tech workforce. What skills does a technician coming into the workforce need to have to be employable and successful? Hear about the value of lifelong learning and reskilling as the development arc technicians need for a continuous trajectory of a thriving career in tech. Learn how Career Pathways, apprenticeships, and certifications are providing strategic inroads for students as well as a valuable pipeline of talent for industry.

In this episode, Todd Christensen joins Mike to talk about integrated sensors, MEMS, and how advanced digital technologies are increasing the complexity of the tools and skills required by technicians. Digitalization means technicians must be equipped with a broad range of cross-disciplinary stem skills. Todd also shares his take on the recent bill for chip manufacturing and research and how it could impact the workforce. Find out what Todd believes will be the next big thing and what advice he would offer to educators, employers, and future technicians.

In this episode, Mike interviews Jake Hall, the "Manufacturing Millennial" for a fresh perspective on the next generation of technicians. With emerging technologies in Industry 4.0, Jake shares his thoughts about how factories are transforming and what the manufacturing sector needs to do to recruit and develop young talent.

Host Mike Lesiecki interviews Jordan Morrow, the “Godfather of Data Literacy.” They discuss how technicians can become proficient in interpreting and communicating data and why these skills are more important than ever for the future of work. They examine what certification programs and pathways for data literacy and data analytics are emerging to help address the critical functions of data literacy and data analytics. Mike and Jordan explore how instructors can begin integrating data literacy and analytics into their own programs so that students are ready to work with data to diagnose and make decisions in the workplace.